Buffalo nickels, minted between 1913 and 1938, are celebrated for their stunning design, which features a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. While many Buffalo nickels are widely available, a few rare and exceptional specimens have reached jaw-dropping prices at auctions, some exceeding $500,000. These valuable coins are often the result of minting errors or limited production runs, making them prized additions to any collection.
Let’s look into seven of the rarest and most valuable Buffalo nickels ever minted.
Table of Contents
1913 Liberty Head Type 1
This coin marks the transition from the Liberty Head nickel to the Buffalo nickel. Struck in extremely limited numbers, the 1913 Liberty Head Type 1 is renowned for its bold strike and intricate details. Collectors covet high-grade examples, which can command values exceeding $500,000.
1916 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1916 Buffalo nickel is famous for its dramatic doubled die error on the obverse, where the doubling is clearly visible to the naked eye. This error makes it one of the most celebrated in U.S. coinage history. Pristine examples have sold for over $550,000, making it a standout piece for error coin enthusiasts.
1937-D Three-Legged
Perhaps the most iconic Buffalo nickel error, the 1937-D Three-Legged variety occurred due to over-polishing of the die, which erased one of the buffalo’s legs. Its rarity and visual appeal have made it a cornerstone for collectors, with high-grade specimens valued at over $575,000.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo nickel boasts the lowest mintage of any regular-issue coin in the series. Finding one in high-grade condition is a daunting task, as most surviving examples are heavily worn. When found in excellent condition, this coin can fetch prices exceeding $500,000 at auction.
1918/7-D Overdate
The 1918/7-D Overdate error occurred when dies from 1917 were reused and over-engraved with the 1918 date. This created a distinctive overdate effect, with the “7” visibly overlapping the “8.” Its historical importance and rarity place its value at over $550,000, especially in top condition.
1913-S Type 2
Minted in San Francisco, the 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo nickel stands out for its exceptionally low mintage and sharp details. Its rarity and desirability among collectors have driven its value to exceed $600,000, making it one of the most sought-after coins in the series.
1936-D Doubled Die Obverse
The 1936-D Doubled Die Obverse features noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the date and lettering. This error adds significant value, with well-preserved examples fetching over $525,000.
| Coin Name | Year of Minting | Error/Feature | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head | 1913 | Transitional Design | 500,000+ |
| 1916 Doubled Die | 1916 | Doubled Obverse | 550,000+ |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | 1937 | Missing Buffalo Leg | 575,000+ |
| 1926-S | 1926 | Lowest Mintage | 500,000+ |
| 1918/7-D Overdate | 1918 | Overdate Error | 550,000+ |
| 1913-S Type 2 | 1913 | Limited Production | 600,000+ |
| 1936-D Doubled Die | 1936 | Doubling on Obverse | 525,000+ |
Buffalo nickels are more than just coins; they are pieces of history that capture the artistry and craftsmanship of their era. Their blend of rarity, beauty, and historical significance makes them invaluable to collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner, the pursuit of these rare treasures adds excitement and meaning to the hobby of coin collecting.
FAQs
Why is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel famous?
Its error resulted in the buffalo missing a leg, making it rare and valuable.
What is the 1918/7-D Overdate nickel?
An error where the ‘7’ in 1917 overlaps the ‘8’ in 1918.
How much is the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse worth?
High-grade examples can fetch over $550,000.
Why is the 1926-S Buffalo nickel valuable?
It has the lowest mintage of the series, making it very rare.
What is unique about the 1913-S Type 2 nickel?
Its low mintage and sharp details make it highly sought after.
